Raising Smarter Children

Hello Dear Readers,

Yesterday, the topic was exercise and how it can actually help make smarter kids.  The recent University of Illinois study showed that kids who exercise have higher grades and reading comprehension scores.

The bad news is that many schools are reducing or eliminating recess time.  So here’s a few exercises you can teach your kids at home, and they can do them inside the classroom.

It’s always a great idea to talk with your child’s teacher first, and show the study results so it’s easy to make the learning – exercise connection.  That way, your child’s teacher is more likely to allow the kids to do these exercises in class.

1.  As we mentioned yesterday, make sure the whole brain is engaged by doing things to cross the midline of the body.  If your child is seated, simply have him or her cross the midline of the body – first with one hand, then the other.  Kids can use their feet too – moving one foot to the left, then one to the right.

2. Our favorite P.E. teachers say to do jumping jacks or march in place to get the circulation moving and expend those calories.  You get brain benefits too, because those great feel good neurotransmitters are released.

3. Have your child ask to pass out papers or books so they are up and moving more often.

4. Ask your child’s teacher if kids can stand up and sit down several times during each class. This only takes a minute or so, but the time really adds up if done all day long.

5. Shoulder shrugs help kids and adults release neck tension – try them yourself.  I just did them now, while writing this post and feel great!

We’d love to hear from you and have you add some more indoor exercise ideas!

Visit our sister site at http://www.HowToLearn.com for 52 free Instant Learning tips and more to help your child succeed in learning everything.

Remember, every child is smart!

Warmly,

Pat Wyman and Erin Mavredakis, M.D.

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